"First, some straight talk for some - just some - in the media. Because another right protected for all of us is freedom of the press, and you have such important jobs, reporting facts and informing the electorate and exerting power to influence. You represent what could and should be a respected, honest profession, that could and should be a cornerstone of our democracy. Democracy depends on you, and that is why - that's why our troops are willing to die for you. So, how 'bout, in honor of the American soldier, ya quit makin' things up. And don't underestimate the wisdom of the people and one other thing for the media: our new governor has a very nice family, too. So leave his kids alone."

"Last week Democrats released a health care bill which essentially said to Ameria's seniors, 'drop dead.' Despite their promise to care for our seniors, Democrats have decided that it's too expensive to care for my senior constituents and everyone else's constituents."

Ted Kennedy's life's work was not to champion those with wealth or power or special connections. It was to give a voice to those who were not heard; to add a rung to the ladder of opportunity; to make real the dream of our founding. He was given the gift of time that his brothers were not, and he used that gift to touch as many lives and right as many wrongs as the years would allow.

I noticed this has been called the beer summit. It's a clever term, but this is not a summit, guys. This is three folks having drink at the end of the day, and hopefully giving people an opportunity to listen to each other. And that's really all it is. This is not a university seminar.